Host a foreign exchange student
Host a foreign exchange student and make a second family in another part of the world.
Find your student
Our students come from all over the world.
Meet our host families
Our host families come in all shapes and sizes but they all have one thing in common: they open their homes and share their lives with exchange students from around the world.
:focal(1200x390:1201x391)/f/69908/2400x780/2dd301ecb0/our-stories.jpg)
Choose EF
EF High School Exchange Year has been promoting global awareness through student exchange for over 40 years. We bring more students to the US each year than any other high school exchange program. Since 1979, our organization has connected more than 100,000 international students with caring host families across America. We proudly work alongside the US Department of State in promoting public diplomacy through our program.
The student selection
We only accept students who will flourish on an intercultural exchange. Our thorough screening and preparation process set our students up for success.
Choosing your student
Once you have been accepted into our program, you will be able to choose students from 15 different countries. Our EF team will help you find the best match.
The EF support network
We provide host families and students with proactive outreach and individualized support. Our local and regional coordinators will be within driving distance.
Learn more about the hosting experience
Join our online information meeting to hear about this exciting volunteer program and get your questions answered.
We believe in learning from each other
Our mission is to open the world through education. We strive to create the opportunity for a life changing cultural exchange for students, host families and schools regardless of gender identity, race, sexual orientation or religion. Our goal is to build cross cultural understanding, global families, and an inclusive experience for all program participants.
:focal(400x200:401x201)/f/69908/800x400/920e691ca9/ef-pride-2.jpg)
We are actively taking steps towards:
Diversity
We recognize that each individual is unique and understand that each one of us brings something different to the table. Diversity is a fact.
Equity
We commit to breaking down the barriers that may have prevented some of us from receiving fair treatment and opportunities in the past. Equity is a process.
Inclusion
Everyone, regardless of where they live, who they love, their spirituality or the color of their skin has the power to contribute to this organization’s success. Inclusion is a behavior.
Belonging
No one is you, and that is your superpower. Belonging is the freedom to be your true self at EF.
Want to know more about hosting?
Are you ready to experience a new culture at home? Talk with us and start your hosting journey now.
Tell us about yourself
Speak to an EF exchange advisor
Choose your exchange student
Get started!
7 questions host families have
What is required of a host family?
Does EF place students with single people, same-sex couples, retirees, empty nesters or families without school aged children?
Are host families paid?
Where do students come from?
Can I select the student I want to bring into my home?
How long will the student be with my family?
What if it doesn't work out?
:focal(401x400:402x401)/f/69908/801x800/f256820ae2/call-2x.png)
Let’s connect!
Talk to us directly: +1 800 447 4273
Send an email: exchangeyear@ef.com